“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.”—John 10:11
There is a work that must be done for the wealthy, to arouse them to a realization of their relationship to humanity and their accountability to God. They must be awakened to the fact that they are to give an account to Him who shall judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom. Those who are rich are put under responsibility to labor for others in the love and fear of God. But many of the rich trust in their riches, and do not realize the danger in which they are placed. God has something to give them of vastly more value than gold or silver or precious jewels. The soul needs to be attracted by the things that are of enduring value. They need to understand the value of true goodness. Jesus says unto them, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He asks them to exchange the yoke of their own manufacturing for His yoke, which is easy, and for His burden, which is light. He says, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” He is calling: “If any man thirst, let him come unto Me and drink.” “Him that cometh unto Me I will in nowise cast out.”
Those who will listen to the voice of Christ, will recognize the voice of superior goodness, the voice of the True Shepherd. Oh, that the wealthy might feel their responsibility to be faithful stewards of the means which God has entrusted to their care! Oh, that they might understand that they must be agents for God, if they would meet His approval! Oh, that they might know that they were standing upon holy ground, and might be distinguished workers, engaging with Christ in the grand work of elevating those whom Christ died to save! ...
He [God] has entrusted riches to the wealthy in order that they may bless humanity, by relieving the wants of the suffering and needy. This is the work that has been committed to them, and in doing this work they are not to feel that they have done some wonderful thing....
He does not intend that one shall have all the luxuries of life, and that others shall cry for bread. All the means entrusted to humanity over and above what is required to supply their own necessities, is entrusted to them for the blessing of humanity.—The Signs of the Times, July 30, 1894.
Further Reflection: Do I see wealthy people as possible candidates for heaven whom God has called me to reach, or do I see a group rich with goods and in need of nothing?
From Jesus, Name Above All Names - Page 121
Jesus, Name Above All Names